Georgia's wildfire season is upon us
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Fires during the weekend burned through thousands of acres in North and Central Georgia. Photos: Courtesy of the Georgia Forestry Commission
A red-hot wildfire season has begun in Georgia, and state forestry officials are urging residents to exercise extreme caution when lighting a match.
Why it matters: Though less prevalent than large-scale blazes in California and the Northwest, wildfires are a serious risk in Georgia from February to May, particularly in the rural and mountainous parts of the state.
- An all-consuming wildfire would be a one-two punch for Georgia's forest industry after Hurricane Debby and Helene sliced through the state.
Driving the news: During the weekend, almost 500 blazes burned through more than 6,000 acres across the state, according to the Georgia Forestry Commission.
- In the Carolinas, hundreds of people were forced to evacuate as dozens of wildfires consumed areas near Myrtle Beach and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Threat level: The days ahead show less risk for blazes, the GFC said. But low humidity, coupled with dry vegetation and winds, are a recipe for fires to spark and spread.
- The whole state of Georgia has "above normal" potential for significant wildfire events in March, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.
What they're saying: "Any spark that takes hold outdoors is capable of igniting a large wildfire," Georgia Forestry Commission Protection Chief Thomas Barrett said in a statement.
- "That means one ember from a backyard leaf pile, grill, or campfire can spark a dangerous fire. Also hot machinery on dry grasses or a tossed cigarette."
"Human involvement is the reason behind these fires and the answer to preventing them as well."
Flashback: On April 16, 2007, a downed power line near Waycross started a fire that consumed 564,450 acres in Georgia (including the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge) and Florida.
- Considered one of the worst fires in U.S. history, the Sweat Farm Fire burned for nearly two months and caused $65 million in damage to Georgia timber operations, according to the GFC.
Zoom out: Even if the fire isn't burning next door, wildfires have an impact. They can spark insurance rate hikes (or cause companies to decline coverage).
- The smoke from blazes can also pose serious health concerns for people with lung conditions. A recent study found that people exposed to smoke have a much greater risk of developing dementia.
